'Transformers' clears hurdle to use choppers in Chicago

July 18, 2013|By Leonor Vivanco, @lvivanco | RedEye

Paramount Pictures cleared a hurdle on Thursday to film "Transformers 4" in Chicago this summer.

The City Council Committee on Transportation and Public Way advanced an ordinance permitting the film company to have helicopters take off and land at the old U.S. Steel site on the Southeast Side. The ordinance will be considered by the full City Council at its next meeting on July 24.

Ald. John Pope (10th) said he plans to talk to Paramount next week to arrange a deal to benefit community residents. Among the options he'd like to discuss are hiring local residents, casting residents as extras, giving residents tickets to the movie once it opens or allowing residents to view filming of the movie.

The Tribune reported Wednesday the movie is set to be filmed in Chicago Aug. 18 to Sept. 27 and the movie is expected to be released in June 2014.